Water (Biology)

From ZuluNotes - Free Leaving Cert Notes

Water consists of tiny particles called molecules. Each molecule is composed of Hydrogen (H) and Oxygen (0)atoms in the ratio of 2:1. Water is known as H2O. Most foods and all drinks contain water. About 1 litre is taken into the body daily in the form of drinks, 1 litre daily from water content food and approximately a quarter of a litre from the oxidation of fats, carbohydrates and proteins.

Enzymes can only function in a solution of water. Over 70% of our body is water. Water loss occurs through breathing, excretion and sweating. The average person loses between 2 and 3 litres of water per day.

Importance of Water

• Universal Solvent - provides a medium in which chemical reactions can occur
• Absorber of heat
• Photosynthesis - is the main source of the Oxygen produced by plants during it.
• Respiration - is produced as a result of
• It is the habitat in which many micro organisms and animals live